Constitution of the State of Idaho
1890
Idaho's constitution was drafted in convention at Boise in the summer of 1889 and ratified by voters that November, taking effect when Congress admitted Idaho to the Union on July 3, 1890. The framers, working in a territory that had seen rapid growth from mining and agriculture, built a government intended to check the power of railroad and corporate monopolies that dominated Western economic life. The document closely tracks the pattern of other post-Civil War Western constitutions, with a detailed bill of rights and strict limits on the legislature's power to incur debt. It remains largely the original 1890 text, amended many times but never replaced by a new convention.
Preamble
We, the people of the State of Idaho, grateful to Almighty God for our freedom, to secure its blessings and promote our common welfare do establish this Constitution.
Article I — Declaration of Rights
Section 1. All men are by nature free and equal, and have certain inalienable rights, among which are enjoying and defending life and liberty; acquiring, possessing and protecting property; pursuing happiness and securing safety. Section 2. All political power is inherent in the people. Government is instituted for their equal protection and benefit, and they have the right to alter, reform or abolish the same whenever they may deem it necessary; and no special privileges or immunities shall ever be granted that may not be altered, revoked, or repealed by the legislature. Section 3. The State of Idaho is an inseparable part of the American Union, and the Constitution of the United States is the supreme law of the land. Section 4. The exercise and enjoyment of religious faith and worship shall forever be guaranteed; and no person shall be denied any civil or political right, privilege, or capacity on account of his religious opinions.